Avionics Systems Engineer II - Neutron Flight Safety Systems

Avionics Systems Engineer II - Neutron Flight Safety Systems

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rockethas become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

AVIONICS SYSTEMS ENGINEER II – NEUTRON FLIGHT SAFETY SYSTEMS

As an Avionics Systems Engineer II – Neutron Flight Safety Systems, you'll work across avionics hardware, software, and testing. This dynamic role demands expertise in interface management, project planning, documentation, and hands‑on hardware, along with strong collaboration skills. Be part of a flagship program driving innovation through development, production, and operations. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Drive requirements specification, cross-disciplinary interface management, engineering trades, and prototyping activities for the Neutron FSS/FTS across development, critical design, and future iterations.
• Collaborate with design engineers and external stakeholders to define and document test requirements, while resolving competing priorities to optimize schedules and system functionality.
• Conduct risk analysis, FMECA, root-cause analysis of test anomalies, and review system-level test data from integrated testing, stage testing, and launches, while developing automation tools for data analysis.
• Translate stakeholder expectations into measurable technical requirements, collaborate with assurance functions to align with certification standards, and tailor safety strategies to meet regulatory requirements.
• Analyze technical problems, define constraints, performance requirements, and Measures of Performance to assess progress and guide design solutions.
• Plan and manage technical efforts, including product roadmaps, deliverables, reporting requirements, and critical technical events, ensuring alignment with project objectives.
• Maintain strong communication with regulatory authorities (FAA, NASA), review launch safety standards (e.g., RCC-319, RCC-324), and contribute to certification strategies and program timelines.

YOU’LL BRING THESE

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable engineering field or equivalent professional experience.
• 3+ years relevant industry experience.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Demonstrated good engineering judgement, looking at all available options to solve a problem.
• Understanding of common Systems Engineering practices, handbooks, and standards.
• Experience with requirements management tools such as Jama.
• Understanding of instrumentation, interfaces and sensors including power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors. Understanding of designing hardware from concept through production.
• Understanding of software systems and programming languages…